‘Finals’… a dirty word … to come out of players’ mouths outside the four walls of a footy club, especially when doing media.
But ahead of Fremantle’s first September campaign since 2015, there’s an unusual and rarely observed openness from within the playing group.
Instead of shying away from speaking of chasing the ultimate and daring to dream, there’s a new, refreshing mindset coming from Cockburn.
It’s finals time for Freo again.Credit:Getty Images
It’s more ‘embrace expectations, don’t fear failure’, being belted out from Perth’s south.
“This is something we’ve been building towards and wanting to achieve for years now,” a confident Caleb Serong declared during the week.
When Alex Pearce was asked what’s possible, without hesitation, the response: “Anything, everything.”
The air of confidence and comfort in openly declaring professional goals surely can’t be a bad thing.
It’s a flow-on effect coming from above, a message starting from chief executive Simon Garlick in late 2021.
What stood out from the Dockers strategic plan was outlining the aim of delivering premierships for both the men’s and women’s programs by 2025.
Also included in the timeframe was 80 thousand members and an average crowd of 50 thousand for home games.
Yes it’s optimistic, yes the media will pin up the statements and hold Garlick and the club to account.
But there’s nothing wrong with publicly stating what every club and footballer in the land wants to achieve.
Realistically, 2022 is likely to end with the trophy cabinet still bare, but no one can argue it’s an exciting new era with further growth on and off the field expected in the immediate future.
And it’s not to say more memorable moments like the ones below won’t play out this finals series.
2013 Qualifying Final v Geelong – Kardinia Park
The build up was dominated by the Cats fighting and earning a home final in Geelong, while Fremantle went about plotting their downfall.
Zac Dawson was reported before the opening bounce for striking James Podsiadly.
Nat Fyfe takes on Geelong.Credit:Getty Images
Geelong established a 20 point lead before the Dockers kicked five goals in the second quarter to edge clear at the half.
Michael Barlow was brilliant with 32 touches and three goals, but it was Stephen Hill who provided “THE” moment.
An Aaron Sandilands hit-out from a throw-in in their defensive half was plucked by Hill, coming onto the ground from the interchange.
Five bounces and 100 metres later, the smooth-moving midfielder kicked truly, booking a home preliminary final.
2013 Preliminary Final v Sydney – Subiaco Oval
The Dockers manic pressure, particularly early, strangled the Swans.
Michael Walters showed his brilliant finishing skills slotting their first from just inside the 50 metre arc nearing the boundary, then his magic in the third with a sensational high-flying mark 20 metres out, his third goal, putting the game beyond doubt.
David Mundy runs away with the ball. Credit:Getty Images
The “FRRRREEEOOOO” chant burst out late in the third quarter, replaced only by roars of “MCG!! MCG!! MCG!!” as Fremantle secured their first appearance in a Grand Final.
2012 Elimination Final v Geelong – MCG
The reigning premiers up against a Fremantle side only in their second final as a club.
Enter Matthew Pavlich.
The skipper exploded in a first quarter onslaught, kicking three himself as Fremantle stunned the Cats with a five goal to nil quarter.
A tough contest in 2012.Credit:Getty Images
Geelong would never recover, firing their best shots too late – Pavlich capping a memorable game with six goals as Fremantle clinched their maiden finals win.
Only nine current players have finals experience with four of those Nat Fyfe, Joel Hamling, Nathan Wilson and Travis Colyer up against it to play a part this season.
But there’s plenty of match-winners waiting in the wings, poised for their moment.
Andy Brayshaw
One of the Brownlow Medal favourites can further elevate his already high standing by leading the Dockers to victory minus Nat Fyfe.
The Bulldogs pride themselves on the contest and clearance game, preferring to win the ball rather than tag opposition midfielders.
Andy Brayshaw.Credit:Getty Images
This will work in his favour, so too his two-way running.
Sean Darcy
Has the ability to play long stints in the ruck, slowly grinding his opponent into the ground.
The ruck battle between Darcy and Tim English will be crucial.
Sean Darcy needs to step up in the ruck.Credit:Getty Images
The Doig Medallist is built for finals and I expect him not to disappoint in his first finals outing.
Michael Walters
The veteran has played in 11 finals, kicking 25 goals, including majors in every game.
Fresh off a season high three goals in his 200th game, Walters will be intent to have a major say in the outcome.
Michael Walters might kick a bag.Credit:Getty Images
If Fremantle’s talls can provide a contest, look for Walters to be circling.
